Honesty is the Best Policy

Communication is something we do all day long everyday.  It is very easy to get "caught up" in conversations we would rather not have at all.  It is also very easy to speak without thinking; the Bible warns us about this.  "...but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ--" (Eph 4:15)  If we are to be mature, influential Christians, then we must be cautious about our conversation--not only the words we speak but also our actions and the company we keep.  "Therefore, putting away lying, each one speak truth with his neighbor (this means everyone you come in contact with), for we are members of one another." (Ephesians 4:25)  "Now therefore, fear the Lord, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served ...Serve the Lord!" (Josh 24:14)  He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart; ... (Ps 15:2) "The law of truth was in his mouth, and injustice was not found on his lips.  He walked with Me in peace and equity, and turned many away from iniquity (Mal 2:6).  "I said, I will guard my ways, lest I sin with my tongue; I will restrain my mouth with a muzzle, while the wicked are before me" (Ps. 39:1).  Always speak the truth when asked a question; keep confidential matters confidential; think before you speak.  Followng these guidelines will help all of us to have less to repent of and build Godly character and influence those around us to live an honest life.